About Mike
A Speaker Who Inspires, Motivates, and Transforms
From homelessness to a multi-million-pound business, from the lowest depths of despair to the highest levels of recognition, Mike Stevenson’s story is one of extraordinary resilience, reinvention, and triumph.
A Keynote Speaker like no other, Mike doesn’t just talk about change – he embodies it. His life has been a roller-coaster of dramatic twists and turns, and he brings those experiences to the stage with passion, humor, and a powerful ability to connect with audiences.
A Journey Like No Other
Expelled from school at just 15 with no qualifications, Mike’s life spiraled into homelessness, depression, and addiction. He experienced the dark side of London’s Swinging Sixties, narrowly escaping a Trainspotting-style drugs heist gone wrong, before moving to Dublin at the start of The Troubles. There, he crossed paths with Thin Lizzy’s Phil Lynott and Brian Downey, while also finding himself under surveillance by Special Branch detectives.
His journey has taken him from being spat on in the streets to being celebrated in the highest places.
A Must-See Speaker
Mike is not just a speaker – he’s an experience. His talks are electrifying, packed with captivating storytelling, infectious energy, and powerful insights. Audiences don’t just listen; they feel every moment, every lesson, every transformation.
His ability to move people to greater things is unmatched. He speaks about:
- The power of reinvention – how he rebuilt his life from nothing.
- Overcoming adversity – turning challenges into opportunities.
- Stepping boldly into the future – embracing innovation and change.
- The mindset of success – learning from failures to achieve greatness.
Business Success & Thought Leadership
Mike is the founder of Thinktastic, an innovation agency that was voted Scottish Small Company of the Year in 2008. His unique approach to helping people and organizations break through barriers has led to transformational success for businesses, communities, and individuals alike.
With over 30 years in marketing, Mike has worked with major brands such as M&S, British Gas, Sky TV, SSE or Standard Life.
In every project, he exceeded expectations and delivered measurable impact.
Recognised for Making a Difference
Mike’s influence extends far beyond the corporate world. His work in education and community development has been widely recognized:
- Three-time winner of the Business in the Community Award for Raising the Attainment of Young People.
- One of only 21 UK company directors to receive the inaugural Community Mark for his commitment to social impact.
- Winner of New Start Magazine’s Better Places Award 2011.
He was also a founding member of Glasgow’s Wise Group and the multi-award-winning creative agency, Design Links.
A Life of Many Hats
Before becoming a global speaker, Mike had an astonishing 29 jobs before his 26th birthday, including:
- Musician (playing in clubs and festivals)
- Actor (appearing on TV and film)
- Steelworker, wine bottler, hod carrier, hospital orderly, and more
A Global Speaker & Media Voice
Mike is a TEDx and Leadercast speaker, a regular media commentator on leadership and innovation, and an occasional columnist for The Sunday Times.
He has even hosted Disney Institute Masterclasses twice, sharing his insights on creativity and leadership with global audiences.
Book Mike Stevenson for Your Event
If you’re looking for a Motivational Speaker who inspires, entertains, and drives real change, Mike Stevenson is the one. His passion, humor, and powerful storytelling will leave your audience motivated, uplifted, and ready to take on new challenges.
Get in touch today and bring Mike’s energy to your next event!